Glucosamine Sulfate (Herb/Suppl)

Relief of symptoms of osteoarthritis, temporomandibular joint arthritis

Efficacy

Slower-acting than ibuprofen, but comparable effectiveness after 6-12 weeks of treatment

Frequency Not Defined

Possible poor glycemic control in diabetics; monitor blood glucose

Increased intraocular pressure (see Cautions)

Constipation

Diarrhea

Drowsiness

Headache

Heartburn

Hyperinsulinemia

Nausea

Skin reactions

Contraindications

None reported

Cautions

Diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, hypersensitivity to seafood (derived from shellfish)

Increased intraocular pressure observed in controlled clinical trial (JAMA Ophthal May 23, 2013; published online)

Pregnancy Category: N/A

Lactation: N/A

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

Mechanism of Action

Intermediate in glycosaminoglycan synthesis

Absorbed: glucosamine sulfate better absorbed than other forms of glucosamine, or chondroitin